Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms the soul, then you’ve come to the right place! This Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is a hug in a bowl—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. I cherish this recipe because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly comforting, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a little pick-me-up, this soup is sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this soup even more special is that it’s made from scratch, allowing all those wonderful flavors to shine through without needing any heavy creams. You’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and time again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch of this comforting soup.
• Family-friendly: Everyone will love the creamy texture and hearty ingredients—perfect for picky eaters!
• Make-ahead convenience: Double the recipe and freeze some for later; it tastes just as good reheated.
• Customizable flavors: You can easily adjust the seasonings and veggies based on what you have on hand.
• Healthy comfort food: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! This list features everything you need to create your Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup.

For the Base

• 3 tablespoons (42g) butter
• 1 cup (115g) onion, diced
• 2 teaspoons (10g) minced garlic
• 2 medium carrots, sliced in thick chunks (about 1-1½ cups)
• 2 stalks celery, diced (about ⅓ cup)
• 2 teaspoons (1.6g) fresh minced thyme
• 1 bay leaf

For Thickening and Flavor

• 3 tablespoons (30g) flour
• 1 canned evaporated milk (12 oz)
• 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth

For the Heartiness

• 2-3 cups (135g) cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 teaspoon (4g) Creole seasoning
• 1 teaspoon (2g) chicken bouillon
• ½ tablespoon (8.5g) Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup (150g) frozen peas

Seasoning

• ½ teaspoon (2.5g) salt
• ½ teaspoon (1g) freshly ground black pepper (more or less to taste)

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons (8g) chopped flat-leaf parsley

Variations

This Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use rotisserie chicken or even turkey instead of cooked chicken for a different flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Creamy twist: Blend in a bit of cream cheese at the end for an extra creamy texture.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like things spicy!

How to Make Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaf. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften. This step enhances their flavors and builds a tasty base for your soup.

Step 2: Create the Roux

Next, sprinkle in the flour and stir until fully incorporated. This mixture will help thicken your soup later on. Follow with adding evaporated milk and chicken broth while stirring continuously.

Step 3: Bring It to a Boil

Bring everything to a boil while constantly stirring until slightly thickened. This process ensures that your soup achieves that rich consistency we all love!

Step 4: Add Chicken and Seasonings

Now it’s time for the star ingredients! Add shredded chicken along with Creole seasoning, chicken bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, and peas. Season to taste with salt and pepper—don’t be shy to adjust based on your preference!

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finally, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping! Enjoy every soothing spoonful of your Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Making a delicious soup is all about the little details, and these tips will help you create a bowl of homemade cream of chicken soup that’s bursting with flavor!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly enhance the overall taste and aroma of your soup, making it more vibrant and enjoyable.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a creamier texture, simply add more flour to your roux or let the soup simmer longer to reduce it. This flexibility allows you to customize the soup to your liking.
• Shred your chicken: Using shredded chicken instead of chunks allows for better distribution throughout the soup. It creates a more cohesive dish where every spoonful has that comforting chicken flavor.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings! Adding a pinch of paprika or a dash of cayenne can introduce an exciting kick that makes your soup unique.
• Make it ahead: This soup lasts well in the fridge for several days and can be frozen for future meals. Preparing it in advance means you’ll always have a cozy meal ready on busy nights!

How to Serve Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup

Serving homemade cream of chicken soup is an art, and there are many delightful ways to present this comforting dish that make it even more inviting!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Adding chopped green onions on top provides a fresh crunch and vibrant color, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
• Croutons: A handful of crunchy croutons adds texture, making each spoonful interesting and satisfying.
• A drizzle of olive oil: A light drizzle just before serving not only looks beautiful but also adds richness to each serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping and complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.
• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup, providing balance to your meal.
• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf pairs well as it absorbs some of that creamy goodness while adding a nutty flavor that rounds out the dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition, making them a great accompaniment while also keeping everything healthy!

With these serving suggestions, you’ll have a cozy meal that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making dinner stress-free and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool fully after cooking.
• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen if needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup.

Can I make Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup without evaporated milk?

Yes! You can use whole milk or a non-dairy milk alternative like almond or oat milk. Just ensure you adjust the flavors as needed.

How can I modify this Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup recipe?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as corn or green beans! You can also adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Is Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is lower in calories and fat compared to store-bought versions while still being rich and satisfying. Plus, it’s made with wholesome ingredients.

What can I serve with Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a light sandwich for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Homemade Cream of Chicken Soup brings comfort and warmth to your kitchen! It’s truly special because it’s made from scratch, allowing you to control every ingredient. Enjoy crafting this cozy dish, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends. Happy cooking!